2026 Scholarship Recipient at Staunton River High School

This year the Smith Mountain Lake Women’s Club (SMLWC) awards the 4th annual scholarship to a graduating female senior at Staunton River High School who has been actively involved in the community. The scholarship recipient must complete a scholarship package listing her activities that demonstrate her leadership values and teamwork in serving the community. The scholarship winner is required to explain her educational and career goals. The 2026 SMLWC Scholarship recipient is Miss Kira Hayden, a graduating senior at Staunton River High School, and her goals are listed in the bio below:

Kira Hayden

GPA: 3.58

Moneta, VA

Attending: University of Lynchburg

“I plan to attend the University of Lynchburg to major in Business Management in hopes of returning to Bedford, Virginia. I would love to open a business tailored towards youth. I want to offer the youth and entertainment space along with resources such as counseling, mentoring, tutoring, financial planning and literacy classes for teens and adults. I want to help make a difference and keep our youth involved in the community with a safe space. Bedford is a hidden gem with so much to offer, from the beautiful scenery to local businesses with warm inviting smiles. I want to make a difference by showing people why Bedford is ‘The World’s Best Little Town’ ”.

Miss Hayden’s community service and leadership activities include includes volunteering at the Agape Center and World Help Organization, volunteering as Cop Camp Counselor in Bedford, and volunteering with the Youth Ministry at Greenspring Baptist Church. She has also participated in Bedford Centerfest, the annual Before the Works celebration at Liberty Lake Park, the annual Trunk or Treat at Liberty Lake Park, and National Night Out.

High School leadership, awards and activities include Student Council Representative, member of Youth of Virginia Speak Out About Traffic Safety, member of the SRHS Competition Cheerleading Team, Captain of the Sideline Cheerleading Team and a member of the National Honor Society.

The members of Smith Mountain Lake Women’s Club hope you will join them in congratulating the 2026 SMLWC Scholarship recipient of Staunton River High School, Miss Kira Hayden.